Policy update

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE and Global Rules Confirm Visa Sponsorship Does Not Permit Passport Confiscation

Official guidance across five countries, including the United Arab Emirates, confirms that visa sponsorship does not grant employers control over workers' passports or remuneration. In the UAE, government regulations strictly prohibit passport confiscation, and private-sector employers must comply with Wage Protection System rules regardless of cash-flow issues. Labour complaints for covered UAE private-sector employees must be addressed through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Ministry of Finance Updates E-Invoicing Rules and Compliance Deadlines

The UAE Ministry of Finance has eliminated the preliminary approval phase for e-invoicing providers under Ministerial Decision No. 168 of 2026. Enterprises generating over AED 50 million annually must select an accredited provider by October 30, 2026, ahead of mandatory rollout on January 1, 2027.

Policy & Legal Updates

Abu Dhabi Announces Measures to Accelerate Business Establishment and Operational Timelines

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development has announced new measures to speed up the process from investment decisions to active business operations. According to ADDED Chairman Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, the initiative focuses on reducing duplicate requirements and coordinating cross-entity licensing. Non-oil sectors contributed 54.7 percent of the emirate's GDP, with commercial setup requirements already cut by 71 percent via the TAMM platform.

Policy & Legal Updates

Sheikh Mohammed Issues Decision Forming Board of Dubai Economic Security Centre

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum issued Decision No. (24) of 2026 forming the Board of Directors of the Economic Security Centre of Dubai. Talal Humaid Belhoul was appointed Chairman, with Awad Hader Al Muhairi serving as Vice Chairman. The decree came into legal effect immediately upon its issuance.